As the ongoing pandemic continues to reshape the professional landscape, the traditional landscape of accounting internships has also undergone significant changes. Many businesses and accounting firms, grappling with financial challenges, have scaled down or eliminated internship programs. The impact is substantial, with a 52% drop in on-site internship opportunities since the pandemic's onset, according to Glassdoor. This predicament leaves CPA students seeking internships facing heightened competition and limited prospects.
In this article, we delve into alternative avenues for accounting students, specifically exploring the concept of self-directed internships. While the traditional internship path may seem uncertain, self-directed internships empower individuals to replicate the valuable experiences and benefits offered by conventional internships. By strategically leveraging self-starter skills and showcasing professional competency, aspiring accountants can carve out a unique and impactful career path.
Setting Internship Goals:
The first step in embarking on a self-directed internship journey involves defining clear objectives. Although individual goals may vary, the ultimate aim remains consistent—securing a full-time offer that propels a successful CPA career. Drawing inspiration from established internships, aspiring accountants can identify key outcomes such as mentorship, networking, feedback, and skill-based projects.
Mentorship plays a pivotal role in traditional internships, often leading to return offers. To replicate this connection, seeking a mentor within a desired company becomes paramount. This mentor can provide valuable insights, facilitate connections, and offer career path guidance. Utilizing university alumni directories, professional associations like the AICPA, or networking platforms like LinkedIn can aid in finding a suitable mentor.
Traditional internships contribute to soft skill development and bolstering resumes. To emulate this, engaging in community service, volunteering, or acquiring additional technical skills outside the classroom becomes crucial. These experiences not only enhance the resume but also showcase a well-rounded candidate actively involved in both academic and extracurricular pursuits.
Self-Directed Substitutes: Three Options
In-Person Internship:
Shadowing an accounting professional offers an immersive experience akin to a traditional internship. Extended periods of observation provide a comprehensive understanding of specific roles and company dynamics, aiding in informed career decisions. Informational interviews with professionals of interest and community service or volunteering opportunities also contribute to valuable in-person experiences.
Online Internship:
Online opportunities present a distinct avenue for expanding networks and making connections. Leveraging online resources, such as LinkedIn messages or relevant online communities, helps in broadening professional connections. Additionally, engaging in online learning through virtual skill-building coursework enhances accounting acumen. Pursuing certifications, courses, and technology-related skills online adds tangible value to one's professional profile.
Educational Internship:
Education-focused opportunities enable individuals to maximize their self-directed internship. Learning about accounting software, exploring job listings to identify necessary skills, staying informed about industry trends through publications, and attending webinars contribute to a holistic educational experience. Pursuing professional certifications further enhances a resume, making candidates stand out in the job market.
Stay Motivated:
The abundance of options in self-directed internships might seem overwhelming initially. Starting with a manageable set of tasks allows individuals to gauge their effectiveness and efficiency. Tackling each task with the same commitment and work ethic as a traditional internship ensures personal and professional growth. Stressing the importance of forming strong work habits, the self-directed internship becomes a valuable and transformative experience.
Traditional internships are not the sole pathway to launching a successful accounting career. A self-directed internship, approached with dedication and commitment, can equip individuals with the necessary skills, confidence, and hireability. Regardless of the chosen path, cultivating a strong work ethic during the internship lays the foundation for a successful and enduring career.